NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
258 reportsMileage unknown · Jan 20, 2020
Steering
I CALLED MY DEALER ABOUT A RECENT RECALL NOTICE I RECEIVED IN THE MAIL. THEY INFORMED ME THAT THEY WOULD BE WELDING THE THREADS ON MY CENTER DRAG LINK. THIS PREVENTS THE STEERING WHEEEL FROM EVER BEING ADJUSTED AFTER AN ALIGNMENT. THIS NOW CREATES ANOTHER SAFETY ISSUE WITH A STEERING WHEEL THAT WILL BE WAY OFF CENTER. SO MUC…
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I CALLED MY DEALER ABOUT A RECENT RECALL NOTICE I RECEIVED IN THE MAIL. THEY INFORMED ME THAT THEY WOULD BE WELDING THE THREADS ON MY CENTER DRAG LINK. THIS PREVENTS THE STEERING WHEEEL FROM EVER BEING ADJUSTED AFTER AN ALIGNMENT. THIS NOW CREATES ANOTHER SAFETY ISSUE WITH A STEERING WHEEL THAT WILL BE WAY OFF CENTER. SO MUCH FOR THE 1- & 2 POSITIONS. THIS SO CALLED FIX IS IS A DISGRACE! IT CALLS FOR WELDING AN ADJUSTABLE PART OF THE STEERING LINKAGE RENDERING IT NON- ADJUSTABLE WHEN HAVING THE FRONT END ALIGNED IN THE FUTURE. NOT TO MENTION THE EFFECT OF WELDING, POTENTIALLY CAUSING A PROBLEM WITH THE INTEGRITY OF THE METAL. THE CORRECT FIX FOR THIS SAFETY ISSUE IS TO REPLACE THIS STEERING LINKAGE COMPONENT, THE ENTIRE DRAG LINK! NOT DO A "BACK YARD, SHADE TREE MECHANIC" WELD JOB ON THE STEERING LINKAGE OF ALL THINGS! I AM APPALLED THAT NHTSA APPROVED SUCH A THING. PLEASE REVISIT THIS ISSUE AND DO THE RIGHT THING. REQUIRE CHRYSLER (FCA US LLC) TO REPLACE THIS DEFECTIVE PART WITH THE PROPER PART. NOTE.... CHRYSLER IS NOT WELDING THE NUTS ON THE DRAG LINKS ON TRUCKS COMING OFF THE ASSEMBLY LINE! THEY ARE COMING OFF WITH PROPER, SAFE, ADJUSTABLE DRAG LINKS! I WILL DIE IN THIS TRUCK BEFORE I LET FCA WELD ANYTHING ON MY STEERING LINKAGE. JUST SO YOU KNOW.
NHTSA ODI #11300416
50 miles · Jan 17, 2020
Exterior Lighting
THIS IS THE TRADESMAN MODEL, WHICH IS THE BARE BONES BASIC WORK TRUCK. AT NIGHT, WHEN TURNING A 90 DEGREE CORNER, LEFT OR RIGHT, ONE CAN NOT SEE THE ROAD OR WHAT MIGHT BE COMING BECAUSE THE HEADLIGHTS DO NOT ILLUMINATE THE ROAD IN A SHARP TURN. IT IS ESPECIALLY WORRYING WHEN TURNING ON A DARK ROAD FROM A STOP SIGN. THIS HAS B…
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THIS IS THE TRADESMAN MODEL, WHICH IS THE BARE BONES BASIC WORK TRUCK. AT NIGHT, WHEN TURNING A 90 DEGREE CORNER, LEFT OR RIGHT, ONE CAN NOT SEE THE ROAD OR WHAT MIGHT BE COMING BECAUSE THE HEADLIGHTS DO NOT ILLUMINATE THE ROAD IN A SHARP TURN. IT IS ESPECIALLY WORRYING WHEN TURNING ON A DARK ROAD FROM A STOP SIGN. THIS HAS BEEN LIKE THIS SINCE THE TRUCK WAS NEW.
NHTSA ODI #11300103
Mileage unknown · Jan 15, 2020
Steering
SAFETY RECALL V06 / NHTSA 19V-021 DRAG LINK - JANUARY 25, 2019 THIS SO CALLED FIX IS ABHORRENT! IT CALLS FOR WELDING AN ADJUSTABLE PART OF THE STEERING LINKAGE RENDERING IT NON-ADJUSTABLE WHEN HAVING THE FRONT END ALIGNED IN THE FUTURE. NOT TO MENTION THE EFFECT OF WELDING, POTENTIALLY CAUSING A PROBLEM WITH THE INTEGRITY OF …
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SAFETY RECALL V06 / NHTSA 19V-021 DRAG LINK - JANUARY 25, 2019 THIS SO CALLED FIX IS ABHORRENT! IT CALLS FOR WELDING AN ADJUSTABLE PART OF THE STEERING LINKAGE RENDERING IT NON-ADJUSTABLE WHEN HAVING THE FRONT END ALIGNED IN THE FUTURE. NOT TO MENTION THE EFFECT OF WELDING, POTENTIALLY CAUSING A PROBLEM WITH THE INTEGRITY OF THE METAL. THE CORRECT FIX FOR THIS SAFETY ISSUE IS TO REPLACE THIS STEERING LINKAGE COMPONENT, THE ENTIRE DRAG LINK! NOT DO A "BACK YARD, SHADE TREE MECHANIC" WELD JOB ON THE STEERING LINKAGE OF ALL THINGS! I AM APPALLED THAT NHTSA APPROVED SUCH A THING. PLEASE REVISIT THIS ISSUE AND DO THE RIGHT THING. REQUIRE CHRYSLER (FCA US LLC) TO REPLACE THIS DEFECTIVE PART WITH THE PROPER PART. NOTE.... CHRYSLER IS NOT WELDING THE NUTS ON THE DRAG LINKS ON TRUCKS COMING OFF THE ASSEMBLY LINE! THEY ARE COMING OFF WITH PROPER, SAFE, ADJUSTABLE DRAG LINKS! SIGNED, OWNER OF A 2016 RAM 2500 WHICH I ORDERED AND PURCHASED NEW.
NHTSA ODI #11299487
83,888 miles · Jan 6, 2020
Electrical SystemVehicle Speed Control
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 2500. WHILE DRIVING WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED, THE ENGINE REVVED WITHOUT WARNING. WHEN THE CONTACT PLACED THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER IN PARK, TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE, THE VEHICLE OPERATED AS INTENDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LARRY H. MILLER CHRYSLER JEEP TUCSON (7800 E 22ND ST, TUCSO…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 2500. WHILE DRIVING WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED, THE ENGINE REVVED WITHOUT WARNING. WHEN THE CONTACT PLACED THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER IN PARK, TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE, THE VEHICLE OPERATED AS INTENDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LARRY H. MILLER CHRYSLER JEEP TUCSON (7800 E 22ND ST, TUCSON, AZ 85710 (520) 258-6000) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SPEED CONTROL SWITCH FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V332000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA TO FILE A COMPLAINT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 83,888.
NHTSA ODI #11297401
26,000 miles · Jan 3, 2020
Power Train
CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER FAILED WHILE DRIVING IN 2ND GEAR, NO CLUTCH PRESSURE, COULD NOT STOP TRUCK AND IT WOULD NOT STALL, I ENDED UP TURNING KEY OFF AFTER DRIVING OVER CURB ON TO SIDEWALK. THIS WAS WHILE TRYING TO STOP FOR STOPPED CARS AT TRAFFIC LIGHT. FORTUNATELY I WAS ONLY MOVING AT MAYBE 10 MPH. FLORIDA TRUCK, 26K MILES O…
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CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER FAILED WHILE DRIVING IN 2ND GEAR, NO CLUTCH PRESSURE, COULD NOT STOP TRUCK AND IT WOULD NOT STALL, I ENDED UP TURNING KEY OFF AFTER DRIVING OVER CURB ON TO SIDEWALK. THIS WAS WHILE TRYING TO STOP FOR STOPPED CARS AT TRAFFIC LIGHT. FORTUNATELY I WAS ONLY MOVING AT MAYBE 10 MPH. FLORIDA TRUCK, 26K MILES ON IT.
NHTSA ODI #11296970
10,000 miles · Dec 26, 2019
Power Train
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 2500. WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE 4 WHEEL DRIVE LEVER WOULD SHIFT INDEPENDENTLY AND THE "4 WHEEL DRIVE SHIFT IN PROGRESS" WARNING MESSAGE WOULD ILLUMINATE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO SEVERAL DODGE DEALERS, INCLUDING ATHENS DODGE CHRYSLER JEEP RAM (4145 ATLANTA HWY, ATHENS, GA 30606), …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 2500. WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE 4 WHEEL DRIVE LEVER WOULD SHIFT INDEPENDENTLY AND THE "4 WHEEL DRIVE SHIFT IN PROGRESS" WARNING MESSAGE WOULD ILLUMINATE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO SEVERAL DODGE DEALERS, INCLUDING ATHENS DODGE CHRYSLER JEEP RAM (4145 ATLANTA HWY, ATHENS, GA 30606), GWINNETT CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM (5054 GA-78, STONE MOUNTAIN, GA 30087), AND AKINS DODGE CHRYSLER JEEP RAM (220 W MAY ST, WINDER, GA 30680). THE ACTUATOR AND ELECTRICAL HARNESS WERE REPLACED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE ORIGINAL DEALER TO BE SERVICED. THE CONTACT BROUGHT THE VEHICLE BACK TO ATHENS DODGE, BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS LESS THAN 10,000.
NHTSA ODI #11291272
Mileage unknown · Nov 25, 2019
Steering
I AM THE OWNER OF A 2016 RAM 2500 WITHTHE DRAG LINK RECALL. THE PROPOSED FIX TO THE DRAG LINK DOES NOT CORRECT THE ISSUE. WHLE IT PROVIDES A WORK AROUND, THERE ARE COMPLIANTS THAT EVEN AFTER THE PARTS ARE WELDED OWNERS EXPERIENCE THIS ISSUE. THIS SHOULD BE FURTHER INVESTIGATED AND THE ROOT CAUSE WHICH IS DEFECTIVE PARTS SHOULD B…
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I AM THE OWNER OF A 2016 RAM 2500 WITHTHE DRAG LINK RECALL. THE PROPOSED FIX TO THE DRAG LINK DOES NOT CORRECT THE ISSUE. WHLE IT PROVIDES A WORK AROUND, THERE ARE COMPLIANTS THAT EVEN AFTER THE PARTS ARE WELDED OWNERS EXPERIENCE THIS ISSUE. THIS SHOULD BE FURTHER INVESTIGATED AND THE ROOT CAUSE WHICH IS DEFECTIVE PARTS SHOULD BE REPLACED AND NOT SIMPLY WELDED. I HAVE CONTACTED CHRYSLER SEVERAL TIMES IN AN ATTEMPT TO GET THE PARTS REPLACE BUT THEY HAVE INDICATED THEY WILL NOT COMPLY WITH MY REQUEST. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW HOW THIS "FIX" IS ACCEPTABLE BY NHSTA TO MAKE IT SAFER AND ACCEPTABLE. NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V021000
NHTSA ODI #11282227
4,000 miles · Oct 28, 2019
Power Train
WHILE DRIVING WITH OR WITHOUT MY TRAVEL TRAILER AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS A LOUD GROUNDING NOISE IS HEARD FROM UNDER OR TOWARD THE FRONT DIVE TRAIN AND HAS SOME FEEDBACK FELT FROM THE STEERING WHEEL SOMETIMES THE SERVICE 4WD LIGHTS UP BUT NOT ALWAYS I MUST SLOW DOWN TO A CRAWL INGAGE THE 4WD STOP BACK UP CUT OFF IGNITION RESTART SOME…
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WHILE DRIVING WITH OR WITHOUT MY TRAVEL TRAILER AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS A LOUD GROUNDING NOISE IS HEARD FROM UNDER OR TOWARD THE FRONT DIVE TRAIN AND HAS SOME FEEDBACK FELT FROM THE STEERING WHEEL SOMETIMES THE SERVICE 4WD LIGHTS UP BUT NOT ALWAYS I MUST SLOW DOWN TO A CRAWL INGAGE THE 4WD STOP BACK UP CUT OFF IGNITION RESTART SOMETIMES IT DISENGAGES 4WD AND SOMETIMES WHEN I SLOW TO A CRAWL A MECHANICAL CLUNK CAN BE HEARD AND TRUCK WORKS NORMALLY . DURNING THE TIME THE GRINDING SOUND IS PRESENT THE 4WD WILL NOT FUNCTION AND THE 4WD INDICATER LIGHT WILL NOT COME ON. WHEN THIS FISRT OCCURRED THE TRUCK HAD AROUND 4000 MILES IT WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER CONWAY CHYSTLER CONWAY SC 29528 THEY REPLACED TRANSFER CASE CONTROL MODULE SAID IT WAS FIXED I PICKED IT UP IT DID IT AGAIN ABOUT 5 MILES FROM DEALERSHIP I TOOK IT BACK THEY AGAIN REPLACED A PART THE AXLE LOCKER ACTUATOR SAID IT WAS FIXED 7 DAYS TOTAL IN SHOP NOW FOR THIRD TIME AT 12000 MILES ITS DOING IT AGAIN BACK TO CONWAY I HAVE CONTACTED FCA TO ASK FOR A BUYBACK THIS IS VERY UNSAFE IF THIS TRUCK INGAGES 4WD PULLING MY CAMPER ON THE INTERSTATE IT COULD CAUSE A CRASH SO I NOW WILL NO LONGER DRIVE THIS TRUCK UNLESS I ABSOLUTLY HAVE TO IF NO BUYBACK IS ISSUED I WILL REQUEST A LIBILITY LETTER BE ISSUED TO ME FROM FCA RELEASING ME FROM ANY LIBILITY OF THIS TRUCK BEING SOLD OR TRADED
NHTSA ODI #11271602
36,000 miles · Oct 1, 2019
Power TrainCrashInjury
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 2500. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO SHIFT GEARS, THE GEAR SHIFTER SEPARATED FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BRYANT MOTORS (2901 SOUTH LIMIT AVE, SEDALIA, MO) WHERE THE FAILURE WAS REPAIRED. LATER, WHILE BACKING OUT OF THE GARAGE, THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT SWITCH INTO THE DRIVE POSITION. …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 2500. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO SHIFT GEARS, THE GEAR SHIFTER SEPARATED FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BRYANT MOTORS (2901 SOUTH LIMIT AVE, SEDALIA, MO) WHERE THE FAILURE WAS REPAIRED. LATER, WHILE BACKING OUT OF THE GARAGE, THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT SWITCH INTO THE DRIVE POSITION. THE VEHICLE WOULD ONLY DRIVE IN FOURTH GEAR AND WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHO REPLACED THE BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID. ON ONE OCCASION, AFTER SWITCHING INTO THE PARK POSITION WITH THE ENGINE STILL RUNNING, THE DRIVER EXITED THE VEHICLE. MOMENTS LATER, THE VEHICLE ERRONEOUSLY DROVE BACKWARDS AND KNOCKED THE DRIVER TO THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE ALSO STRUCK TWO ADDITIONAL INDIVIDUALS WHO WERE POSITIONED BEHIND THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE THEN CRASHED INTO TWO PARKED VEHICLES AND A MOTORCYCLE. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED NECK AND BACK INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. THE CAUSE THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE CRASH. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 36,000.*DT
NHTSA ODI #11265322
24,000 miles · Sep 25, 2019
Power Train
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 2500. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL CLICKING NOISE EMERGING FROM THE ENGINE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO PLAZA CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM (2077 HWY 44 W, INVERNESS, FL 34453, (352) 726-1238) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TENSION…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 2500. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL CLICKING NOISE EMERGING FROM THE ENGINE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO PLAZA CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM (2077 HWY 44 W, INVERNESS, FL 34453, (352) 726-1238) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TENSION PULLEY FRACTURED AND SNAPPED. THE FAILURE DAMAGED THE SERPENTINE BELT, WATER PUMP, AND WIRING HARNESS. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 24,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA ODI #11257954
Official recalls
12Jan 16, 2025
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Ram 3500, Ram 1500, 2016-2020 Ram 2500, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's numbers for this recall are 05C, 09C, and 10C.
Aug 12, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on October 4, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 26, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y55.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Air Bags:side/window:curtain:inflator
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence: A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on October 4, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 26, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y55.
Air Bags:side/window:curtain
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence: A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on October 4, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 26, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y55.
May 9, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with an 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. Chrysler is also recalling all 2013-2014 and 2018 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks built before April 1, 2018 with a 6 or 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. On August 29, 2019 Chrysler expanded the recall to include an additional 693,128 model year 2013-2014 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the tailgate opens while the vehicle is being driven, cargo may fall out the vehicle and create a road hazard, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the tailgate latch, free of charge. The recall began May 23, 2019. Chrysler is expected to notify owners of the expanded population on October 18, 2019. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's number for this recall is V44. Note: 2015-2017 MY Ram 1500 pickup trucks with truck beds other than 8 foot, are currently covered under NHTSA recall 18V-486 for this issue.
Jan 25, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Ram 3500 and 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and Ram 2500 vehicles. The outboard steering linkage jam nut may loosen, allowing one end of the drag link to separate.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A drag link separation can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will check the steering linkage jam nut tightness, replacing the drag link assembly or welding the nut to the adjuster sleeve, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V06.
Jul 27, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the tailgate latch releases and the tailgate opens while driving, cargo may fall out, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began September 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U74.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Latches/locks/linkages:tailgate:latch
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Consequence: If the tailgate latch releases and the tailgate opens while driving, cargo may fall out, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began September 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U74.
Structure:body:tailgate
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Consequence: If the tailgate latch releases and the tailgate opens while driving, cargo may fall out, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began September 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U74.
May 17, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Additional source detail variants (3)
Electrical System:software
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Vehicle Speed Control:cruise Control
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Electrical System:wiring
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Dec 21, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.
Dec 20, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs, 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, 2009-2017 Ram 1500 and 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, all equipped with a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position. With the pin in the open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key in the ignition.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Being able to shift the transmission without pushing the brake pedal and/or without a key in the ignition can increase the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, inspect the BTSI, and, as necessary, replace it, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T79.
Sep 12, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines that have Concentric-brand water pumps without a vent hole. These water pumps may leak coolant.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The leaking water pump can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pumps, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T51.
Aug 10, 2017
Streetcar ORV LLC, dba American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500 and 3500 heavy duty trucks, modified by AEV to be equipped with cast aluminum Katla 8.5" road wheels. The outer surface of the wheel may fracture, resulting in rapid air loss.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the wheel fractures, a loss of vehicle control can occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: AEV will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wheels with wheels of similar value, free of charge. The recall began on August 30, 2017. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256 extension 500.
May 9, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2014-2016 Ram 3500 vehicles. Certain driving conditions, such as driving off-road or debris striking the vehicle may cause the roll rate sensor to trigger a fault within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If this fault occurs, the rollover side curtain air bag and the seat belt pretensioner will be disabled from deploying.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the rollover side curtain air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash that necessitates activation of these safety systems.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ORC software, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T25.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Air Bags:side/window:curtain
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2014-2016 Ram 3500 vehicles. Certain driving conditions, such as driving off-road or debris striking the vehicle may cause the roll rate sensor to trigger a fault within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If this fault occurs, the rollover side curtain air bag and the seat belt pretensioner will be disabled from deploying.
Consequence: If the rollover side curtain air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash that necessitates activation of these safety systems.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ORC software, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T25.
Air Bags
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2014-2016 Ram 3500 vehicles. Certain driving conditions, such as driving off-road or debris striking the vehicle may cause the roll rate sensor to trigger a fault within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If this fault occurs, the rollover side curtain air bag and the seat belt pretensioner will be disabled from deploying.
Consequence: If the rollover side curtain air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash that necessitates activation of these safety systems.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ORC software, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T25.
Sep 23, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis trucks manufactured July 31, 2015, to August 13, 2015 and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine. In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An engine that stalls without warning increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R52.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System:ignition:module
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis trucks manufactured July 31, 2015, to August 13, 2015 and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine. In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning.
Consequence: An engine that stalls without warning increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R52.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis trucks manufactured July 31, 2015, to August 13, 2015 and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine. In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning.
Consequence: An engine that stalls without warning increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R52.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
3RQ25003 · Post Recall Remedy Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (btsi) Failure
Opened Jul 3, 2025 · No close date supplied
Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Power Train:automatic Transmission; Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (prndl)
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 14 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports and 6 EWR Death & Injury (D&I) reports describing post recall remedy failures of the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 RAM pickup trucks.The subject vehicle models include 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped with a column mounted shift lever.The failures of the BTSI described in the VOQs occurred on vehicles that had all previously been repaired under recall 17V-821 or 18V-100.Both recalls address a potential condition which can cause the BTSI locking pin to become stuck allowing the transmission to be shifted out of Park without depressing the brake pedal and/or without having a key in the ignition.Shifting the transmission out of Park when not having the brake pedal depressed can result in a vehicle rollaway. ODI is opening this Recall Query (RQ) to review the effectiveness of the 17V-821 and 18V-100 recall remedies, understand the root cause of additional vehicle rollaway incidents, and identify any other possible root cause that may affect the performance of the BTSI system. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Power Train:automatic Transmission
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 14 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports and 6 EWR Death & Injury (D&I) reports describing post recall remedy failures of the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 RAM pickup trucks.The subject vehicle models include 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped with a column mounted shift lever.The failures of the BTSI described in the VOQs occurred on vehicles that had all previously been repaired under recall 17V-821 or 18V-100.Both recalls address a potential condition which can cause the BTSI locking pin to become stuck allowing the transmission to be shifted out of Park without depressing the brake pedal and/or without having a key in the ignition.Shifting the transmission out of Park when not having the brake pedal depressed can result in a vehicle rollaway. ODI is opening this Recall Query (RQ) to review the effectiveness of the 17V-821 and 18V-100 recall remedies, understand the root cause of additional vehicle rollaway incidents, and identify any other possible root cause that may affect the performance of the BTSI system. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (prndl)
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 14 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports and 6 EWR Death & Injury (D&I) reports describing post recall remedy failures of the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 RAM pickup trucks.The subject vehicle models include 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped with a column mounted shift lever.The failures of the BTSI described in the VOQs occurred on vehicles that had all previously been repaired under recall 17V-821 or 18V-100.Both recalls address a potential condition which can cause the BTSI locking pin to become stuck allowing the transmission to be shifted out of Park without depressing the brake pedal and/or without having a key in the ignition.Shifting the transmission out of Park when not having the brake pedal depressed can result in a vehicle rollaway. ODI is opening this Recall Query (RQ) to review the effectiveness of the 17V-821 and 18V-100 recall remedies, understand the root cause of additional vehicle rollaway incidents, and identify any other possible root cause that may affect the performance of the BTSI system. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
EA19004 · Steering Loss Due To Linkage Separation
Opened Dec 1, 2019 · Closed Nov 20, 2025
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering:linkages:drag:link:connection
On December 17, 2018, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18016 to investigate alleged drag link failures in the steering system on model year (MY) 2015 and 2016 Ram 2500 trucks manufactured by FCA US, LLC (FCA). The drag link failures were found to be due to a safety defect with the steering linkage where the drag link adjustable connector (used to adjust the steering system), held in position by two opposing jam nuts, can loosen. The loosening of this part can lead to wear and deterioration of the threads and eventual separation of the drag link, causing loss of steering. During the course of PE18016, it was found that two styles of drag link were used by FCA on the subject vehicles. The subject vehicles consist of two drivetrain types including four-wheel drive (4WD) and two-wheel drive (2WD). The 4WD and 2WD trucks used drag links of differing design but both incorporated the same threaded connector. In January 2019 FCA issued recall 19V-021 to address a potential loss of steering control in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 4WD RAM 2500 and 3500 trucks. The trucks using the 2WD style drag link were not included in the scope of recall 19V-021. ODI upgraded PE18016 to an Engineering Analysis EA19004 on December 12, 2019. The purpose of EA19004 was to investigate if the root cause of the safety defect addressed by recall 19V-201 also affected the 2WD trucks and evaluate FCA’s rationale for not including them. ODI also monitored incoming consumer complaints regarding the remedy associated with 19V-021 and evaluated the suitability and long-term effectiveness of the prescribed repair. In the Defect Information Report submitted for recall 19V-021, FCA stated that the outboard jam nut could loosen and result in damage to the threading of the steering drag link connector. This could cause a separation in the drag link resulting in a loss of steering control. FCA determined that only the 4WD style drag link was affected and did not recall trucks with the 2WD style drag link due to design differences that made it unsusceptible to this failure mode. The repair remedy called for the steering coupler to be tightened to the proper torque prior to the jam nut being spot welded to the coupler body. If the coupler has already become detached or correct torque cannot be obtained, the drag link is to be replaced with an updated unit that went into production on the MY2019 RAM trucks.This updated unit uses a clamp to secure the coupler in place of the jam nuts used on original style components. In order to determine if the 2WD drag link was susceptible to the same defect found on the 4WD vehicles, ODI requested that our Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) conduct testing on both RAM 2500 4WD and 2WD trucks. This testing was to determine operating conditions that might lead to loosened jam nuts of the recalled 4WD design and recreate these conditions on the 2WD vehicles to discover whether the 2WD design would also experience the loosening defect. Results from VRTC’s dynamic testing indicated that when the jam nuts are significantly under-torqued, they may loosen further from regular vehicle operation on the 4WD vehicles. Further, VRTC testing does not refute FCA’s assertion that the failure mechanism does not exist in the 2WD steering system. At the time of this closing resume, ODI has only received two allegations of drag link separation on 2WDvehicles.Neither could be validated as resulting from loose jam nuts. Since the release of recall 19V-021 ODI has received consumer complaints regarding the appearance of the spot weld applied to the defective drag link and the inability to have the steering properly aligned after welding of the jam nut. In September 2023, FCA provided owners with a supplemental Vehicle Alignment Clarification notification that provided information on an updated alignment procedure. Regarding the spot weld remedy used on the 4WD vehicles, ODI is concerned about the remedy in that during an alignment by a non-dealer repair facility, the spot weld might not be replaced after the alignment. To date there is no complaint trend of post alignment drag link separations, weld failures or other safety related incidents on remedied vehicles. This investigation is being closed with no further action. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances.
PE18016 · Steering Loss Due To Linkage Separation
Opened Dec 17, 2018 · Closed Dec 12, 2019
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering:linkages:drag:link:connection
On December 17, 2018, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation (PE) 18-016 to investigate the steering system on model year (MY) 2015 and 2016 Ram 2500 manufactured by FCA US, LLC (FCA). Four complaints were received alleging separation of the drag link, a steering linkage that connects between the right front steering knuckle and the pitman arm on the steering box output shaft. The failures were found to be at a threaded coupler within the drag link used for adjusting the length of the linkage during routine maintenance (alignment) of the steering system.Once separation occurs, turning the steering wheel has no effect, and there is no way for the driver to control or maintain the direction of the vehicle. During the investigation, it was determined that the same threaded coupler was used on two different drag link designs FCA manufactured on MY 2013-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups. FCA refers to the designs as either 4x2 or 4x4 style. In both designs, the coupler is prevented from turning on the drag link via two jam nuts that are tightened against the coupler. In its response to NHTSA's March 15, 2019, Information Request (IR) letter, FCA identified 48 incidents alleging separation of the steering linkage at the coupler resulting in a loss of steering control. Of those, 13 involved a crash, one of which resulted in an injury. All of the separations involved the 4x4 style drag link. Additionally, FCA's IR response refers to over 300 4x4 style equipped vehicles that experienced, or may have experienced loosening of one or more coupler jam nuts. On January 25, 2019, FCA submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) initiating NHTSA Recall No. 19V-021. In its DIR, FCA stated that the outboard jam nut in certain MY 2013-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500 could loosen potentially resulting in damage to the coupler and/or drag link threading allowing one end of the drag link to separate. The DIR notes that drag link separation results in loss of steering control, which in turn can cause a crash without warning. FCA's DIR did not identify a root cause for the defect, however it posits that an improperly torqued outboard jam nut could loosen, and with long-term vehicle use, cause damage to the outer link bar and/or coupler threads due to relative motion between the two components. The scope of Recall 19V-021 included vehicles with the 4x4 style drag link only. Also discussed in its IR response, FCA noted that the 4x2 style drag link contains a design difference (the outboard portion of the drag link is straight while the 4x4 style contains a bend) which it suggests may result in differences in the mechanical (bending) loads presented at the coupler and jam nut interface. Moreover, the DIR states that While root cause of the 4x4 style defect has not been established, FCA US believes that bending loads on the drag link is, at least, a causal contributing factor. FCA notes it did not identify any reports alleging 4x2 style separation as well as only three reports of loosening of jam nuts, two of which resulted in loosening that provided obvious warning to the vehicle operator, indicating a different failure mode.NHTSA is upgrading this investigation to Engineering Analysis (EA) 19-004 in order to continue to monitor the subject 4x2 style vehicles for evidence of field failures. Additionally, in conjunction with NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center, ODI intends to more thoroughly study potential root cause(s) of the 4x4 style defect mechanism, and if identified, will seek to determine if the 4x2 drag link is susceptible to the same mechanism(s). NHTSA will also evaluate the long-term suitability of the recall
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